Frequently Asked Questions

MIDWIFERY
FAQs

What is an endorsed midwife?

A registered midwife can undertake further university study in prescribing of medicines and the ordering of diagnostic (eg: ultrasound) tests. Once they have completed this study and have at least 5000 hours of clinical experience, they can apply to become endorsed with the Australian Health Practitioner Registration Authority. Once endorsed, a midwife can apply for a Medicare provider number which allows them and/or the woman to claim medicare rebates on eligible midwifery care.

What is different about private midwifery care compared to care in a hospital?

Private midwifery care is individualised, one on one and centred around you and your family. It usually takes place in the comfort of your home, often lasting at least an hour. In contrast, hospital care takes place in the hospital environment with a more clinical, standardised approach, following set policies and timeframes.

I want a homebirth, do you travel to my area?

I’m located around 15 minutes north of Bendigo. I travel within a 45 minute radius of my home. There may be times when my availability allows me to include areas as far as Echuca and Castlemaine. Distances greater than 40km from my home may incur travel fees. If you’re unsure if I travel to your area, feel free to enquire to discuss further.

Do I have to be low risk?

As a private midwife, I follow the consultation and referral guidelines set out by the Australian College of Midwives (ACM). These guidelines include which factors are suitable for midwifery care, which factors suggest consultation with another health care provider and which factors suggest referral to another provider. Rather than categorising everyone to low or high risk, it is more about each individual’s history and planning the most appropriate care which may be care with me in collaboration with other health care professionals.

Do I have to have a homebirth to have private midwifery care?

No! Private midwifery care is available to everyone, whether you plan to birth at home or in hospital. At present I don’t offer birthing support to those planning to birth in hospital but can offer all of your pregnancy and post-partum care.

Can I have a waterbirth?

Of course! Many women plan to have a waterbirth at home and I provide hire of a birthing pool included in your fee.

Are two midwives required at a homebirth?

Yes, a second midwife is required for a homebirth. The second midwife is planned by me during your pregnancy and you will meet them at your birth plan meeting around 36 weeks. In rare circumstances, the planned second midwife may not be able to attend your birth when the time comes and another will be organised by myself. The second midwife’s fee is included in your fees and is not an additional cost.

What happens if I need advice or care between visits?

When you choose me as your midwife, I am on call for you throughout the duration of your care. If you have any questions or concerns between appointments, you are more than welcome to contact me and there is no need to wait until our next meeting. I only ask that any non-urgent questions are reserved for business hours. Being on call means my phone is always on and late night or early morning messages can disrupt my sleep.

LACTATION
FAQs

What can I expect at my appointment?

I will offer a full breastfeeding assessment, this can include;

For mum: Health, pregnancy, birth and if relevant, any prior breastfeeding history. Breast and nipple examination to assess any concerns that may be affecting breastfeeding such as flat or inverted nipples, nipple damage, breast surgery, engorgement, structural abnormalities.

For baby: An oral assessment to determine function and anatomy. Urine and bowel output. Weight checks if required. Feeding history and assessment.

Feeding: A full assessment of a breastfeed, including any relevant support and guidance.

I can’t find an appointment time that suits me, can you help?

If there are no times that suit you or you’re requiring urgent help, please reach out via email at hello@milkydreams.com.au

Will you support me if I want to bottle feed?

Of course! Everyone’s journey is different and I want to support you to achieve your goals. So whether this is a combination of breast and bottle feeding, expressing breastmilk or solely formula feeding.

I think I’m ready to wean, can you help?

I sure can. No matter your reasons or the timing in your journey, I can guide you, free of judgement. I also always remind mums I’m caring for that it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. If providing breastmilk to your baby is important to you but your current situation isn’t working, we can always discuss a plan that works for you.

POSTNATAL
FAQs

What should I expect from a visit?

Visits can include but aren’t limited to; Assistance with establishing breastfeeding, education and support with baby care such as feeding, bathing, burping, changing, assistance with pumping and bottle feeding practice, baby weight and growth checks, assessing mother’s postnatal health and recovery, support settling and sleep.

Who can benefit from postnatal care?

I’d say everyone! But in particular, first-time parents, those with minimal or no family support, those experiencing physical limitations following a difficult pregnancy and/or birth, mental health challenges and transitioning to home from lengthy hospital stays after premature birth/special care nursery admission.

Are Medicare rebates available?

Yes, Medicare rebates are available to eligible Medicare card holders who are also under 6 weeks post birth. Appointments are available to those beyond 6 weeks but Medicare rebates won’t be applicable.